Child sex trafficking is a serious and alarming issue that affects many children, including those in out-of-home care. This tip sheet provides essential information on what child sex trafficking is, the risk factors, and signs to watch out for, as well as tips for keeping children safe.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Child Sex Trafficking:

1. • Defined as the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, obtaining, patronizing, or soliciting a child under 18 for a commercial sex act.
   • The average age of a victim is 13 years old.
   • Traffickers can be of any age but are often U.S. citizens and predominantly male.
2. Recognizing Risk Factors:
   • Children in out-of-home care, such as foster care or those who are homeless, are particularly vulnerable.
   • Other risk factors include low self-esteem, history of childhood sexual abuse, chronic running away, lack of family love, and being LGBTQ+.
   • Approximately 60% of child sex trafficking victims have histories in the child welfare system.
3. Identifying Signs of Trafficking:
   • Behavioral changes, secretive online activities, new profiles, or online friends.
   • Avoiding questions about activities, seeking constant approval, or acting fearful or hostile.
   • Presence of unrelated adult males, hidden stashes of birth control, multiple cell phones, or large sums of money.
4. Steps to Keep Kids Safe:
   • Open, honest communication about the dangers of trafficking.
   • Awareness of community resources and reporting tools.
   • Education on the signs and risk factors for both parents and children.
5. Community and Resource Engagement:
   • Reach out to local organizations like the Wisconsin Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, Exploit No More, and the National Human Trafficking Hotline for support and education.
   • Encourage schools and community centers to adopt prevention protocols and provide resources for victims.

By staying informed and vigilant, parents and caregivers can help protect their children from the dangers of sex trafficking. Remember, awareness and open communication are your best tools in safeguarding your child’s future.

For more detailed information and resources, be sure to read the full tip sheet.